3-Methoxy-5,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxyflavan (ME): a new compound to prevent gastric irritation. A gastric potential difference analysis.

The protective effect of 3-Methoxy-5,7,3',4'-tetrahydroxyflavan (ME) on the gastric irritation induced by aspirin has been established using the non-invasive method of determination of the gastric potential difference (GPD) in male volunteers. 500 mg and 1000 mg ME (approx. 6.0-16.7 mg/kg b.w.) showed protective activity against induced gastric irritation in this model. The possible mechanism of action of this agent is discussed.